JP2014521291A - B-side power supply for critical power applications - Google Patents

Abstract

A method of supplying power to a load, such as an IT load, includes providing output power using at least one power module having at least one fuel cell segment; and supplying a first portion of the output power via a grid. Providing to the A-side power supply unit of the load, and providing the second portion of the output power to the B-side power supply unit of the load.

Description

This application claims priority to US Provisional Application No. 61 / 501,382, filed June 27, 2011, incorporated herein.

  The power system is used to supply power to one or more loads such as buildings, appliances, lighting, tools, air conditioners, heating units, factory machinery, power storage units, computers, security systems, and the like. The electricity used to power the load is often received from the distribution network. However, the electricity for the load can also be supplied via alternative power sources such as fuel cells, solar cell arrays, wind turbines, thermoelectric devices, batteries. Alternative power sources can be used in combination with the electrical grid, and multiple alternative power sources can be combined in one power system. These alternative power sources are generally combined after converting their DC output to alternating current (AC). For this reason, synchronization of alternative power sources is necessary.

  In addition, many alternative power sources use machines such as pumps and blowers that deliver auxiliary power. These pump and blower motors are typically three-phase AC motors that require speed control. If the alternative power source generates direct current (DC), the direct current undergoes several states of power conversion before being supplied to the motor. Alternatively, power to motors such as pumps and blowers is provided using electrical grids, inverters and variable frequency drives. In such a configuration, power conversion of the two stages of the inverter involves power conversion of two additional stages to drive the components of the AC driven variable frequency drive. In general, each power conversion stage performed increases the cost of the system, complicates the system, and reduces the efficiency of the system.

  For operation of individual distributed generators, such as fuel cell generators that are linked or not linked to the grid and that are parallel to each other without linkage to the grid, the current source to the voltage source There is a problem in that switching must be allowed. Furthermore, parallel control of many grid independent generators is an issue.

  A dual inverter configuration is used to address the mode / mode switching challenge. This allows the first inverter to be used in a grid linkage and the second inverter to be used with a free standing load. An exemplary dual inverter configuration with a load-only inverter located within a solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) input / output module is disclosed in US patent application Ser. No. 12 / 148,488 (filed May 2, 2008). : The title of the invention “Uninterruptible Fuel Cell System”), the disclosure of which is incorporated herein in its entirety for all purposes.

  Another approach is to switch modes by turning off power in 5-10 cycles. If one inverter is used, it takes 5-10 cycles to disconnect the grid linkage and establish voltage mode control.

  Yet another approach is to use frequency droop to control the amount of shared power in grid-coupled transmission or load independent output control.

US Pat. No. 7,705,490 US Pat. No. 7,713,649

  Embodiments are electrically coupled between a power generation system having at least one power module having at least one fuel cell segment configured to generate output power, and between the at least one power module and a grid. At least one first output module having at least one power conditioning component, and so that the at least one power module supplies power to the A-side power supply of the load via the at least one first output module. A first bus that electrically connects the grid to the A-side power feed of the load, and at least one electrically coupled between the at least one power module and the B-side power feed of the load And at least one second output module having a power conditioning component.

  Further embodiments include a power generation system having at least one power module having at least one fuel cell segment that generates output power, at least one DC / AC inverter and direct DC power feeding of the at least one power module and load. At least one uninterruptible power module having at least one DC / DC converter electrically coupled between the at least one power module and the at least one uninterruptible power module And a DC output bus for electrically connecting the at least one uninterruptible power module and a load. At least a portion of the output power generated by the at least one power module is provided at a first voltage to the at least one uninterruptible power module via the DC input bus and the DC output from the at least one uninterruptible power module. A second voltage different from the first voltage is provided to the load via the bus.

  A further embodiment is a method of supplying power to a load, comprising generating output power using at least one power module having at least one fuel cell segment; And providing to the A-side power supply unit of the load via, and providing a second portion of the output power to the B-side power supply unit of the load.

  Yet another embodiment is a method of providing power to a load, the method comprising: generating output power using at least one power module having at least one fuel cell segment; and a first portion of output power in a grid. Providing a second portion of the output power to a DC / DC converter that converts the output power from the first voltage to the second voltage; providing the output power to the load at the second voltage; Comprising a method.

FIG. 1A is a block diagram illustrating a system according to one embodiment. FIG. 1B shows the system of FIG. 1A in an operating mode. FIG. 1C shows the system of FIG. 1A in an operating mode. FIG. 1D shows the system of FIG. 1A in one mode of operation. FIG. 1E shows the system of FIG. 1A in an operating mode. FIG. 1F shows the system of FIG. 1A in one mode of operation. FIG. 1G shows the system of FIG. 1A in one mode of operation. FIG. 1H shows the system of FIG. 1A in one mode of operation. FIG. 1I shows the system of FIG. 1A in one mode of operation. FIG. 1J shows the system of FIG. 1A in an operating mode. FIG. 1K shows the system of FIG. 1A in an operating mode. FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a DC microgrid according to one embodiment. FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating a DC microgrid according to one embodiment. FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating an IOM having an inverter configured for “bidirectional” operation according to one embodiment. FIG. 5 is a block diagram illustrating an IOM having an inverter configured for a dual mode function according to one embodiment. FIG. 6A illustrates certain modes of operation of a system of the type shown in FIG. 1 for supplying power to an electric vehicle (EV) charging station according to one embodiment. FIG. 6B illustrates one mode of operation of a system of the type shown in FIG. 1 for supplying power to an electric vehicle (EV) charging station according to one embodiment. FIG. 6C illustrates one mode of operation of a system of the type shown in FIG. 1 for powering an electric vehicle (EV) charging station according to one embodiment. FIG. 6D illustrates one mode of operation of a system of the type shown in FIG. 1 for powering an electric vehicle (EV) charging station according to one embodiment. FIG. 6E illustrates one mode of operation of a system of the type shown in FIG. 1 for powering an electric vehicle (EV) charging station according to one embodiment. FIG. 7A is a block diagram illustrating an embodiment of a system for supplying power to a data center load having an “A” -side power supply and a “B” -side power supply. FIG. 7B is a block diagram illustrating an embodiment of a system for supplying power to a data center load having an “A” side power supply and a “B” side power supply. FIG. 8 is a block diagram illustrating an embodiment of a system for supplying power to a medical facility. FIG. 9 is a block diagram illustrating a further embodiment of a system for supplying power to a medical facility. FIG. 10A is a block diagram illustrating an embodiment of a system for providing DC power to an AC load. FIG. 10B is a block diagram illustrating an embodiment of a system for providing DC power to an AC load. FIG. 11 is a block diagram illustrating an embodiment of a system for supplying power to a load using a distributed generator power module and a microturbine.

  Referring to FIG. 1, a fuel cell system according to one embodiment includes an uninterruptible power module (UPM) 102, an input / output module (IOM) 104, and one or more power modules 106. Have. Where there are two or more power modules 106, for example 6-10 power modules 106, each power module has its own housing. Each housing is described in a cabinet or other type of complete or partial enclosure, eg, US patent application Ser. No. 12 / 458,355, filed Jul. 8, 2009, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein. Has a cabinet. Multiple power modules may be arranged in one or more rows or in other configurations.

  The UPM 102 has at least one DC / AC inverter 102A. If desired, an inverter array may be used. Any suitable inverter known in the art can be used. The UPM 102 has an input rectifier, such as an input diode 102B, connected to the output of the DC bus 112 from the power module 106 and the input of at least one inverter 102A as needed. Further, the UPM has a step-up PFC rectifier 102C connected to the output of a power grid 114 such as a utility grid and the input of at least one inverter 102A as necessary.

  The IOM 104 has one or more power adjustment components. The power adjustment component is an element that converts DC power into AC power, for example, a DC / AC inverter 104A or the like (for example, a DC / AC inverter described in Patent Document 1 in which all contents are included in the present specification), and It has an electrical connector for AC power output to the grid, a circuit for managing electrical transients, and a system controller (for example, a computer or a dedicated control logic device or circuit). The power conditioning component is designed to convert DC power from the fuel cell module into various AC voltages and frequencies. Designs for 208V and 60Hz, 480V and 60Hz, 415V and 50Hz and other common voltage and frequency are provided.

  The cabinet of each power module 106 is configured to accommodate one or more hot boxes. Each hot box has one or more stacks or rows (generally “segments”) of fuel cells 106A, such as one or more stacks or rows of solid oxide fuel cells having ceramic oxide electrolyte separated by conductive interconnect plates. Called). Other types of fuel cells such as PEM, molten carbonate, phosphoric acid may be used.

  In many cases, fuel cells are combined as units called “stacks”, in which fuel cells are electrically connected in series and separated by a conductive interconnect such as a gas separator plate that functions as an interconnect. . The fuel cell stack has conductive end plates at both ends. When the fuel cell stack is general-purpose, one or more fuel cell stacks connected in series (eg, one fuel cell stack end plate is electrically connected to the next fuel cell stack end plate) So-called fuel cell segments or rows. The fuel cell segment or row has an electrical lead that outputs a direct current from the fuel cell segment or row to the power conditioning system. The fuel cell system has one or more fuel cell rows, each having one or more fuel cell stacks, such as solid oxide fuel cell stacks.

  The fuel cell stack has a passage around the inside of the fuel and a passage around the outside of the air. As described in Patent Document 2 in which all the description is included, Only the intake and exhaust risers extend through the openings in the fuel cell layer and / or the interconnect plates between the fuel cells. The fuel cell has an orthogonal flow configuration (a configuration in which the air flow and the fuel flow are substantially orthogonal to each other on both sides of the electrolyte of each fuel cell), and an opposite parallel flow configuration (the air flow and the fuel flow are Have opposite parallel directions on both sides of the fuel cell electrolyte) or the same direction parallel flow configuration (air flow and fuel flow are substantially parallel to each other in the same direction on each fuel cell electrolyte) .

  The power module may have other generators of direct current such as solar cells, wind turbines, geothermal or hydroelectric generators.

  The fuel cell segment 106A is connected to a DC bus 112 such as a split DC bus by one or more DC / DC converters 106B arranged in the power module 106. The DC / DC converter 106B may be arranged in the IOM 104 instead of the power module 106.

  The power module 106 includes an energy storage device 106C such as a plurality of supercapacitor bundles or a plurality of battery bundles as necessary. The energy storage device 106C is connected to the DC bus 112 using one or more DC / DC converters 106D.

  The UPM 102 is connected to an input / output module (IOM) 104 via a DC bus 112. The DC bus receives power from the power module 106.

  The fuel cell system and grid 114 are electrically connected to the load 108 using the control logic unit 110. The load is an appropriate load that uses AC power, such as one or more buildings, appliances, lighting, tools, air conditioning, heating units, factory equipment machines, power storage units, computers, security systems, and the like. The control logic unit includes a switch 110A and a control logic 110B such as a computer, a logic circuit, or a dedicated controller device. The switch is, for example, an electric switch (for example, a switching circuit) or an electromechanical switch such as a relay.

  The control logic 110B sends power from the grid 114 or UPM 102 to the load 108 using the switch 110A. At least one energy storage device 106C and fuel cell segment 106A of the power module 106 are electrically connected in parallel to at least one first inverter 104A of the IOM and at least one second inverter 102A of the UPM 102. At least one first inverter 104A is electrically connected to load 108 via electrical grid 114 using switch 110A as the first position. In contrast to the circuit shown in US patent application Ser. No. 12 / 148,488 (filed May 2, 2008: title “Uninterruptible Fuel Cell System”), the electrical grid 114 of FIG. Instead of a bidirectional inverter, it is directly connected to the load 108 via the control logic unit 110. The at least one second inverter 102A is electrically connected to the load 108 using the switch 110A as the second position without using the electrical grid 114 (ie, the output of the fuel cell segment 106A is routed through the grid 114). It is not necessary to reach the load 108).

  Accordingly, the control logic 110B supplies power to the load from the electrical grid 114 (or fuel cell segment 106A via the electrical grid) or provides power to the load via at least one second inverter 102A. Select. The control logic 110B determines the state of the power module, and selects a supply source for supplying power to the load 108 based on the state of the power module, as will be described later.

  The second switch 116 controls the electrical connection between the IOM 104 and the grid 114. The second switch 116 is controlled by the control logic 110B or another system controller.

For purposes of illustration and not limitation, the system includes the following electrical paths:
A route from the AC grid 114 to the load 108.
A path from the AC grid 114 to the energy storage element 106C (eg, super capacitor or battery) of the power module 106 via the IOM 104.
A parallel path from the energy storage element 106C of the power module 106 to the IOM 104 and the UPM 102 via the DC bus 112. The DC bus carries direct current to the UPM 102 inverter. The inverter 102A of the UPM 102 or the inverter 104A of the IOM 104 sends AC power to the load 108 according to the position of the switch 110A.
A path from the power module 106 (which has power from the energy storage element 106C and / or fuel cell segment 106A of the power module 106) to the IOM 104 and UPM 102 via the DC bus 112. The DC bus carries a DC voltage to the UPM 102 inverter. The inverter 102 </ b> A of the UPM 102 sends AC power to the load 108. Power exceeding the power required for the load 108 is sent to the AC grid via the inverter 104A of the IOM 104. The amount of power sent to the AC grid 114 varies according to the demand of the load 108. If the amount of power required for the load 108 exceeds the power provided by the power module 106, additional power demand is supplied directly to the load 108 by the AC grid 114 via the switch 110A in the first position. Alternatively, the UPM 102 is filled with the switch 110A in the second position. The AC grid power is rectified in the rectifier 102C of the UPM 102, provided to the inverter 102A of the UPM 102, and returned to the AC to supply power to the load 108.

  1B-1K illustrate various modes of operation of the system shown in FIG. 1A. Although the embodiment described below exemplifies the load 108 that requires 100 kW of power and the fuel cell segment 106A that outputs 200 kW of power in a steady state, these values are merely examples, and other appropriate Load and power output values may be used.

  FIG. 1B illustrates system operation during system installation and / or while load 108 is receiving power from grid 114. As shown in the figure, the fuel cell segment 106A and the energy storage device 106C are in the off state, the inverter 104A of the IOM 104 and the inverter 102A of the UPM are both in the off state, the second switch 116 is open, and the IOM There is no electrical connection between the grid and the grid. The control logic switch 110A is in the first position and provides power from the grid 114 to the load 108 via the control logic module 110. As shown in the figure, 100 kW of power is provided from the grid to the load via the control logic module.

  FIG. 1C illustrates the operation of the system during charging of the energy storage device (eg, supercapacitor bundle) 106C from the grid 114 while the IOM is activated and the load 108 is receiving power from the grid 114. As shown in the figure, while the energy storage device 106C is in the on state, the fuel cell segment 106A is in the off state. The bidirectional inverter 104A of the IOM 104 is in an on state, and the inverter 102A of the UPM is in an off state. The second switch 116 is closed, and the IOM and the grid are electrically connected, and power is supplied from the grid 114 to the energy storage device 106C via the inverter 104A and the DC bus 112 of the IOM 104. The control logic switch 110A is in the first position and provides power from the grid 114 to the load 108 via the control logic module 110. As shown in the figure, 100 kW of power is provided from the grid to the load via the control logic module.

  FIG. 1D illustrates the operation of the system during UPM activation following IOM activation. The UPM functions by receiving power from the energy storage device 106C. The UPM supplies power from the energy storage device 106C to the load 108. As shown in the figure, while the energy storage device 106C is in the on state, the fuel cell segment 106A is in the off state. The bidirectional inverter 104A of the IOM 104 is in an ON state, and the UPM inverter 102A is also in an ON state. The second switch 116 is closed, and an electrical connection state is formed between the IOM and the grid. The control logic switch 110 </ b> A is in the second position and provides power to the load 108 from the UPM 102 via the control logic module 110. As shown in the figure, 100 kW of power is provided from the grid 114 through the rectifier 102C and inverter 102A of the UPM 102, and then to the load 108 through the control logic module. Some power may be supplied from the energy storage device 106C to the load 108 via the DC bus 112, the UPM 102, and the control logic module.

  FIG. 1E shows the steady state operation of the system. In this mode, the fuel cell segment 106A is in the on state and supplies power to the load 108. The fuel cell segment 106A provides 200 kW of power (this power is a predetermined power output or maximum output) in the steady state mode. As shown in the figure, the energy storage device 106C is in an on state and functions as a backup power source in an emergency. The bidirectional inverter 104A of the IOM 104 is in an ON state, and the UPM inverter 102A is also in an ON state. The 200 kW power output is divided into a grid 114 and a load 108. The second switch 116 is closed, an electrical connection is formed between the IOM and the grid, and 100 kW of power is provided from the fuel cell segment 106A to the grid. The control logic switch 110A is in the second position, passes from the fuel cell segment 106A of the power module 106 through the DC bus through the IOM 104, then through the inverter 102A of the UPM 102, then through the control logic module 110, to the load 108. The remaining 100 kW of power is provided. The 100 kW power preferably does not reach the load 108 via the IOM inverter 104A and / or the grid 114. The case of a 200 kW power output divided 50 to 50 between the grid and the load has been described, but for example, 10 to 90 to 90 to 10 is divided between the grid and the load as necessary. Various power outputs such as 25 kW to 1000 kW can be used.

  FIG. 1F illustrates the operation of the system while the relatively steady load 108 increases from 100 kW to 150 kW (ie, when the load requires more power than conventional steady state operation). In this mode, much of the power output of the fuel cell segment is provided to the load, and the grid is provided with less power output compared to the steady state mode. If desired, 100% of the power output may be provided to the load and 0% of the power output may be provided to the grid. The fuel cell segment 106 </ b> A is in the on state and supplies power to the load 108. As shown in the figure, the energy storage device 106C is also in an on state and functions as a backup power source in an emergency. The bidirectional inverter 104A of the IOM 104 is on, and the UPM inverter 102A is also on. The second switch 116 is closed and an electrical connection state is formed between the IOM and the grid, and 50 kW of power is provided from the fuel cell segment 106A to the grid 114 via the IOM inverter 104A. . The control logic switch 110A is in the second position and passes from the fuel cell segment 106A of the power module 106 through the DC bus through the IOM 104, then through the inverter 102A of the UPM 102, and then through the control logic module 110, with 150 kW of power. Provided to load 108. Therefore, in this mode, the power output of the fuel cell segment 106A is preferably divided into a grid and a load. Preferably, power does not reach load 108 via IOM inverter 104A and / or grid 114.

  FIG. 1G illustrates the operation of the system during a sudden spike of load 108 where the fuel cell segment requires more power than can be generated at that time. In situations where only fuel cell segment 106A can generate 200 kW of power in steady state or maximum power mode, the load spike is, for example, 100 kW to 225 kW. The fuel cell segment 106 </ b> A is in the on state and supplies power to the load 108. As shown in the figure, the energy storage device 106C is also in the on state and works as a backup power source in an emergency. The bidirectional inverter 104A of the IOM 104 is also on, and the UPM inverter 102A is also on. The second switch 116 is closed, and an electrical connection state is formed between the IOM and the grid. However, due to the occurrence of load spikes, power is not provided to the grid 114 from the fuel cell segment 106A via the IOM inverter 104A. The control logic switch 110A is in the second position, from the fuel cell segment 106A of the power module 106 and the grid 114, through the DC bus through the IOM 104, then through the inverter 102A of the UPM 102, and then through the control logic module 110. The load 108 is supplied with electric power. In this mode, power to the load is provided from both the fuel cell segment and the grid. As shown, 200 kW of power from fuel cell segment 106A is provided to load 108 via DC bus 112, diode 102B, inverter 102A, and switch 110A, and 25 kW of power is provided from grid 114 to rectifier 102B and inverter 102A. , And is provided to the load 108 via the switch 110A, and a total power of 225 kW necessary for the load is achieved. Preferably, power from the fuel cell segment does not reach the load 108 through the IOM inverter 104A and / or the grid 114.

  FIG. 1H shows the operation of the system during a return to normal or steady state operation after a sudden spike in load 108. The fuel cell segment 106 </ b> A is in the on state and supplies power to the load 108. As shown in the figure, the energy storage device 106C is also in an on state and works as a backup power source in an emergency. The bidirectional inverter 104A of the IOM 104 is also on, and the UPM inverter 102A is also on. The second switch 116 is closed, and an electrical connection state is formed between the IOM and the grid. The control logic switch 110A is in the second position and passes from the fuel cell segment 106A of the power module 106 through the DC bus through the IOM 104, then through the inverter 102A of the UPM 102, and then through the control logic module 110 to power the load 108. Is provided. In this mode, the fuel cell segment continues to output steady state power or maximum power (eg, 200 kW power) that is divided into a load and a grid. As shown, 200 kW of power from the fuel cell segment 106A is provided to the IOM 104. The IOM 104 provides 100 kW of power from the fuel cell segment 106A to the grid 114 via the IOM inverter 104A. The DC bus 112 provides the remaining 100 kW of power from the IOM 104 through the diode 102B, the inverter 102A, and the switch 110A to the load 108. Preferably, power does not reach load 108 through IOM inverter 104A and / or grid 114.

  FIG. 1I illustrates the operation of the system during a loss of power from the grid 114 (eg, during a power failure). The fuel cell segment 106 </ b> A is in the on state and supplies power to the load 108. As shown in the figure, the energy storage device 106C is on to store power from the fuel cell segment 106A and to mitigate “steps” that occur during the loss of grid power. The bidirectional inverter 104A of the IOM 104 is also on, and the UPM inverter 102A is also on. The second switch 116 is open and no electrical connection is formed between the IOM and the grid. The loss of grid power can be detected by the sensor and the controller can open the second switch 116 in response to the detected grid outage. The control logic switch 110A is in the second position and passes from the fuel cell segment 106A of the power module 106 through the DC bus through the IOM 104, then through the inverter 102A of the UPM 102, and then through the control logic module 110 to power the load 108. Is provided. In this mode, of the total 200 kW power output from the fuel cell segment 106A, 100 kW of power is provided to the DC bus 112 and 100 kW of power is provided to the energy storage device 106C to ease the steps. . The DC bus 112 provides 100 kW of power from the IOM 104 to the load 108 through the diode 102B, the inverter 102A, and the switch 110A. The power output of the fuel cell segment 106A is then reduced to 100 kW to meet the load 108 requirements.

  FIG. 1J illustrates a loss of power from the grid 114 (eg, during a power failure) when the fuel cell segment is outputting less power (eg, 100 kW of power) than the amount of power that meets the steady state demand of the load. However, it shows the operation of the system when the load is in a transient state (eg, the power demand from the load 108 has increased). The fuel cell segment 106 </ b> A is in the on state and supplies power to the load 108. As shown in the figure, the energy storage device 106 </ b> C is also in the on state and supplies additional power to the load 108. The bidirectional inverter 104A of the IOM 104 is also in the on state, and the UPM inverter 102A is also in the on state. The second switch 116 is open and no electrical connection is formed between the IOM and the grid. The control logic switch 110A is in the second position and passes from the fuel cell segment 106A of the power module 106 and the energy storage device 106C through the DC bus through the IOM 104, then through the inverter 102A of the UPM 102, through the control logic module 110, and the load. Power is provided to 108. In this mode, 100 kW of power from fuel cell segment 106A and 50 kW of power from the energy storage device are provided to DC bus 112. Accordingly, the DC bus 112 provides 150 kW of power to the load 108 from the IOM 104 through the diode 102B, the inverter 102A, and the switch 110A. Preferably, power does not reach power load 108 through IOM inverter 104A and / or grid 114.

  FIG. 1K illustrates when power from the grid 114 is being lost (eg, during a power failure) and the load is in a continuous transient state (eg, the power demand from the load 108 is continuously increasing). Shows the operation of the system. This operation causes the power output of the energy storage device 106C to be reduced to zero over a period of time, and over the same time the power output of the fuel cell segment is increased to the power required for the load (eg, 150 kW of power). The operation is the same as that shown in FIG. 1J. Thus, the load receives increasing power from the fuel cell segment 106A and decreasing power from the energy storage device 106C over the time period until all the required power is supplied to the load 108 by the fuel cell segment. Thus, the energy storage device functions as a bridge power supply during initial load transients and then gradually weakens its function during continuous load transients.

  2 and 3, the outputs of the DC power sources 1 to N are parallel to each other at the DC output point, and a DC bus is formed. Each DC power source 1 -N has one or more power modules 106 and one associated IOM 104. The DC power sources 1 to N supply power to the customer load via one UPM. Thus, multiple power module / IOM pairs share a common UPM. For example, the DC bus forms a DC microgrid that connects any number of DC power sources (eg, SOFC and power conditioning system) in one UPM. The UPM 202 is a large assembly of the individual UPMs 102 shown in FIG. 1A that can output several times the output of the SOFC system itself. As shown in FIG. 2, UPM 202 has “N” UPMs 102 (ie, one UPM for each DC power source) with individual DC buses, and each DC bus is connected to a dedicated UPM 102. Each DC power source is connected. N UPMs 102 are placed in close proximity (eg, side-by-side) in one housing or in separate housings to form a UPM assembly 202.

  In another embodiment shown in FIG. 3, the small dedicated UPM 102 assembly 202 is replaced by a single large UPM 302. In this embodiment, UPM 302 includes an electrical storage device (eg, a battery or a bundle of supercapacitors) and / or a synchronous motor. In general, UPM inverters have rotating machinery (eg, motors, flywheels, etc.) to increase the amount of stored energy and / or increase output reliability and inertia.

  That is, the DC power source has a fuel cell power module and an IOM. The inverter in each UPM is a modular assembly of small inverters that are controlled as one large inverter whose inputs and / or outputs work in parallel. The inverter in the main IOM may be a modular assembly of small inverters that are controlled as one large inverter whose inputs and / or outputs work in parallel.

  In one embodiment, the UPM is provided with a rectifier to allow power from the grid when the stack is offline, thereby providing a load protected bus. A boost converter is used to maintain a good power factor to the grid.

  In another embodiment, in an SOFC system or UPM to form a “UPS” unit having three energy inputs: grid energy, SOFC segment energy, and stored energy (eg, ultracapacitor or battery). Power from the stored energy is used.

  In yet another embodiment, the DC microgrid is connected to other distributed generators, such as photovoltaic or wind power hardware.

  In one embodiment, the DC microgrid is connected to a DC load, such as a DC data center or DC vehicle charger load.

  In yet another embodiment, when the IOM and the UPM are in a state of being composed of a group of inverters operating in parallel, the power supply is stopped for some or all of these inverters depending on the customer load situation. For example, if the power generation capacity is 200 kW and the customer load is 150 kW, the IOM inverter is stopped to cover only 50 kW of power, not the maximum grid linkage output of 200 kW. Further, in this situation, only a portion of the inverter that can be mounted on the IOM assembly is mounted on the IOM, thereby reducing the cost associated with the equipment required to meet a particular customer load situation.

  Referring to FIG. 4, in one embodiment, the IOM 404 has an inverter 412 configured to operate “bidirectional”. This inverter operates in four quadrants. When the grid-linked inverter operates “bidirectionally”, the rectified power supply need not be supplied to the UPM 402. The power of the starting grid comes not via the rectified input to the UPM 402 but via the grid linked inverter 412. In the present embodiment, power is also supplied from the power module 406 to protect the customer load.

  Referring to FIG. 5, in one embodiment, UPM is not utilized. In the present embodiment, the IOM 504 includes an inverter 512 configured to have a dual mode function. The dual mode inverter 512 is configured to operate in association with the grid and operate in a self-supporting mode that covers a customer load without association with the grid. In the present embodiment, the output power is interrupted in order to switch between power generation in one mode and power generation in another mode.

  6A-6D illustrate various modes of operation of the system shown in FIG. 1A in which an electric vehicle (EV) charging module (ECM) is used instead of or in addition to the UPM 102. In some modes of operation, the ECM performs UPM functions.

  The system of FIGS. 6A-6D provides several advantages when used in EV charging situations. In particular, these systems eliminate the need for the grid to provide large peak power during rapid charging of a large number of EVs. This system is also used for EV charging in areas where the provision of grid power is very expensive, or where natural gas pipeline installation is cost effective.

  Referring to FIG. 6A, the EV charging station has one or more power modules 106, one IOM 104, and one ECM 602. The ECM has a DC / DC converter 602A instead of the inverter 102A of the UPM 102. In this embodiment, the EV charging station (eg, ECM 602) has access to grid power. The EV charging station can supply power to the grid and the EV battery simultaneously. Rapid charging (eg, 10-20 minutes) is provided from ECM 602 to EV battery 604 using power from FCM 106. Each time EV battery 604 is connected to a charging station (eg, ECM 602) for charging, the power of FCM 106 is automatically diverted from feeding the grid to feeding the EV charging station. The diversion of power from the grid to the EV battery 604 is accomplished by the control logic shown in FIG. 1A and described above. When the power module 106 is not available, grid power serves as a backup power source for the EV charging station.

  Referring to FIG. 6B, the EV charging station includes one or more power modules 106, one IOM 104, one UPM 102, a control logic unit 110, and one ECM 602. In this embodiment, the EV charging station 602 is used to supply grid power to charge the EV battery 604 and to supply power to the customer load 108. In this configuration, the EV charging station powers the grid and provides uninterruptible power to customer loads (such as office buildings) 108. While the UPM 102 is supplying power to the customer load 108, the IOM 104 supplies power to the grid. The ECM 602 functions as an EV charging station and draws power from the 400V DC bus 112. Therefore, the UPM 102 and the ECM 602 are connected to the DC bus 112 in parallel. While power is being supplied to the customer load 108 without interruption, whenever the vehicle enters for charging by the ECM 602, some of the power supplied to the grid is the time required to charge the EV battery 604. Is diverted to ECM602. Again, this configuration overcomes the challenge of drawing high peak power from the grid, which is a major concern today, especially during the day, when the grid is already supplying full capacity.

  A typical use of this configuration is to supply power to office buildings. While power is being supplied to the grid, clean uninterruptible power from the UPM 102 is supplied to the load 108 resulting from the building (including the data center, lighting, etc.). Charging stations will be installed in the building parking lots for corporate employees and visitors. The EV battery 604 is placed in a parking lot after being charged. Based on the car owner's time constraints, both fast charge (1C) and trickle charge (0.1C) options are offered at the charging station.

  Referring to FIG. 6C, the EV charging station has one or more power modules 106, one UPM 102, one ECM 602, and one DG set 608. This configuration is suitable for use in remote locations where grid power is not available. In this configuration, the UPM 102 draws power from the DC bus connected to the power module 106 and supplies power to the customer load 108. The customer load 108 functions like a base load for the power module 106 and operates the system with some minimum efficiency (in the configuration shown in FIGS. 6A and 6B and described above, the grid is for efficient operation). Provide the minimum base load). In one embodiment, during operation of the ECM 602, the power module 106 and the UPM 102 are adjusted to always meet the maximum customer load. The DG set 608 is used for starting the power module 106.

  Referring to FIG. 6D, the EV charging station has one or more power modules 106 and one ECM 602. The EV charging station configuration is suitable for use where there is no grid power or customer load to be powered. The EV charging station only needs to function as a power source for charging the EV battery 604. In this configuration, the battery bundle 610 functions as a base load for the EV charging station. The battery bundle 610 is charged using normal charging (0.1 C). An EV operator who needs to charge the EV battery 604 obtains charge from the ECM 602. Alternatively, the operator replaces one of the batteries in the battery bundle 610 with a discharged EV battery 604. The DG set 608 is used to activate the power module 106.

  In one embodiment, the EV charging station is configured to take advantage of pricing according to time of day and use the storage capacity of the EV battery. For example, the weekday power cost from 11:00 am to 9:00 pm is several times (for example, five times) higher than the power cost from 9:00 pm to 11:00 am. In the present embodiment, the fuel cell from the EV battery is used to supply power during the peak pricing period and / or to compensate for the lack of power output from the power module 106 due to a failure of the internal power module 106. DC power is returned to the system.

  Referring to FIG. 6E, the fuel cell system includes one or more power modules 106, one IOM 104, one UPM 102, the first control logic unit 110, a switching module 702 including a switch 702A, and a second control logic unit 702B. And ECM 602. If desired, these separate control logic units 110 and 702B may be physically combined into a single unit that performs the functions of unit 110 and unit 702B. In this embodiment, power module 106, IOM 104, and UPM 102 are used to supply power to customer load 108 (eg, a building such as an office building) while allowing power to be supplied to the grid, and ECM 602 is 400V. Used to charge the EV battery 604 by drawing power from the DC bus 112. The control logic unit 110 functions as described above. The control logic unit 702B performs functions to be described later. Therefore, the UPM 102 and the ECM 602 are connected to the DC bus 112 in parallel.

  In one embodiment, UPM 102 (e.g., inverter 102A of UPM 102) is tuned to a higher characteristic than is necessary to provide power from power module 106 to load 108 alone. The additional power handling capability is used to utilize additional DC power from the EV battery connected to the EV charging station (ie, ECM 602). The control logic unit 702B switches the switch 702A, thereby connecting the EV battery 604 to the ECM 602 to receive power from the ECM 602, or connecting the EV battery 604 to the DC bus 112 to provide power to the DC bus 112. Or

  By way of example and not limitation, the fuel cell system includes a power module 106 capable of supplying a first value of maximum power (eg, 200 kW of power). The UPM 102 is adjusted to convert direct current to alternating current so as to supply a second value of maximum power (eg, 400 kW AC power) that is greater than the first value. That is, the inverter 102A is designed to convert DC power into AC power more than the amount that the power module can provide. The UPM 102 uses additional conversion capabilities to convert DC power from the EV battery 604 (eg, up to 200 kW DC power) to AC power for supply to the load 108 or grid 114.

  Accordingly, DC power from the electric vehicle battery 604 is received at the electric vehicle charging module (ECM) 602 during a higher power price period from the grid, and the received power is provided to at least one inverter 102A. The inverter 102A converts the received DC power into AC power and supplies the AC power to a load (for example, 108 or the grid load 114).

  In one embodiment, DC power is supplied to the ECM 602 from the at least one fuel cell power module 106 before the step of receiving DC power when the power cost is low, and then supplied to the electric vehicle battery 604 from the ECM. The

  The combination of the EV charging station and the fuel cell system is arranged at an office where employees who drive electric vehicles are located. In general, using the price setting according to the time, the employee parks the electric vehicle in the recharge dock of the office and connects the EV battery 604 to the ECM 602 for 8 to 10 hours on weekdays. Normally, all EV batteries 604 use the power supplied from the ECM 602, and the switch 702A connects the EV battery 604 to the ECM 602 before the price of power from the grid rises (eg, until 11:00 am). ) Fully charged. Next, after the price of the grid power increases (for example, after 11:00 am), the control logic 702B switches the switch 702A to a position where the EV battery 604 is connected to the DC bus 112. The EV battery 604 is then used to supply a portion (eg, 10-75%, especially 50%) of the stored charge to the DC bus 112. For example, EV batteries receive more charge daily (or weekly, etc.) than they return to the DC bus. If desired, EV owners are not charged for the net charge they receive, or are charged less than the charge for charging EV batteries from the grid. Next, the charging station supplies up to 400 kW of alternating current to the load 108 in a peak cut load following manner. Since the electricity price during the day is rising, all parties will benefit financially.

  In another embodiment, the electric vehicle battery is charged at a location other than the ECM 602 during the low power price cost period prior to receiving DC power from the ECM 602 during the high power price cost period. For example, EVs are charged remotely using low cost night electricity (eg, overnight from the grid at home). These EVs are then connected to ECM 602 in the morning. After the power price rises during the day (for example, after 11:00 am), the EV battery 604 supplies a predetermined percentage of stored charge to the DC bus 112. Therefore, the DC bus can supply up to 400 kW of alternating current to the load 108 by the peak cut load following method. EV owners are compensated for the cost of the power supplied (i.e., the power they store and supply to the DC bus 112 at their home). In this case as well, the price of electricity during the day is high, so all parties will benefit financially.

  Of course, the times used in the above examples are for illustrative purposes only. The charging station is configured to utilize power from the EV battery to address the price depending on the time for the area where the charging station is located.

  The method and system can be readily used with multiple generators in parallel with a large load while allowing tight control of frequency and voltage.

  The following embodiments are from a first side of the distributed fuel cell power generation system and from a second side of a grid (eg, utility or campus grid) or a distributed generator (eg, diesel generator) (DG). , Supplying power to a DC load or an AC load. Each side is used as primary or secondary side.

  FIG. 7A illustrates, for example, a data center IT load (ie, a device that operates in an IT system that includes one or more computers, servers, routers, racks, power connections, and other components in a data center environment), etc. 1 illustrates an embodiment of a system 700 for powering a load 108, which is an Information Technology (IT) load. As described herein, in an IT system (ie, a device operating in an IT system that includes one or more computers, servers, routers, racks, power connections, and other components in a data center environment). An operating IT load and IT system is a DC power that the IT load does not monitor and / or manage and / or control the operation of the DC power generator or DC power system that provides power to the IT load itself. Distinguish from devices such as computers, servers, routers, racks, controllers, power connections, and other components used to monitor, manage and / or control the operation of generators and DC systems Is done.

  Data centers that accommodate IT loads include racks that support various servers, routers, etc., and / or buildings that accommodate IT loads. As shown in FIG. 7A, the data center IT load 108 is “dual-coded” or “multi-coded”, which means that power sources with different loads (eg, “A” side feed, This means that power is received from a plurality of power supply units from “B” side power supply units, “C” side power supply units, and the like.

  As shown in FIG. 7A, the load 108 (eg, a data center rack) is a dual-coded load having an “A” side power supply unit and a “B” side power supply unit. The load 108 draws power (for example, 50% power from the “A” side power feeding unit and 50% power from the “B” side power feeding unit) from both power feeding units. The changeover switch or static switch in the load 108 is power search type and maintains power to the load 108 under all conditions (via one or both power supplies). In some embodiments, the load 108 includes a dual code power source (ie, “A” side) having two sets of AC / DC electronic circuits with a diode “or” circuit at the output substantially therein. Power is drawn from any power source that has a power source and a “B” side power source) and is lined up for a viable source. In this type of configuration, no switch is required. The transition from one power source to the other or the power sharing when power is shared between these power sources is achieved using solid state components. Accordingly, the load has a dual cord power source having two sets of power circuits that draw power from at least one of the A-side power supply unit and the B-side power supply unit in an auction system.

  The “A” side feed of the load 108 connects to a standard power infrastructure such as a grid 114 with a backup of any distributed generator (eg, diesel generator) (DG) 706 and uninterruptible power supply (UPS) 708 Is done.

  The “B” -side power feeding unit of the load 108 is connected to one or more UPMs 102 (eg, a self-contained inverter output).

  System 700 further includes at least one power module 106 and associated IOM 104. At least one power module 106 feeds a first portion of its output power (eg, 5-95% of its output power, especially about 50%) through the one or more UPMs 102 to the “B” side of load 108. Provide to the department. This is schematically illustrated by arrow 704 in FIG. 7A.

  The at least one power module 106 provides a second portion of its output power (eg, 5-95% of its output power, especially about 50%) to the grid 114 via the associated IOM 104. The electric power from the IOM 104 is provided via the grid 114 to the “A” side power feeding unit of the load 108 connected to the grid 114 as described above. This is schematically illustrated by arrow 702 in FIG. 7A, where power is supplied from the IOM 104 to the grid 114 and then provided from the grid 114 to the load 108 via the “A” side feed. It is shown that.

  In various embodiments, during normal operation of the system 700, the at least one power module 106 outputs all or substantially all of the power required for the load 108. A first part (for example, 50% or less) of the power output is directly supplied to the “B” side power supply unit of the load 108 via the UPM 102. A second portion (eg, 50% or less) of the power output is fed to the grid 114 via the IOM 104 and returned from the grid 114 to the “A” side feed section of the load 108. Thus, in various embodiments, no net power from the grid 114 is required for the load 108, thereby eliminating the need to purchase excess power from the grid 114 manager, thus providing a configuration within the rack of the data center. The cost for supplying power to a load 108 such as an element is substantially reduced. Further, because of the output of the IOM 104 and the output of the UPM 102 loaded from the power module 106, the fuel cell in the power module 106 is heat soaked to full or almost full load. Thus, if the “A” (grid) side feed is lost and there is a step (eg, 50% -100%) in the load, this is an easy change that places little burden on the fuel cell. .

  When a loss or interruption of power from at least one power module 106 occurs (eg, when the load 108 is not receiving power via the “B” side power feed), 100% of the power demand on the load 108 is “ It is pulled out from the grid 114 via the “A” side power feeding section. The resulting spike in grid power demand (eg, 50-100% of load 108 power) is easily absorbed by grid 114.

  When a loss or interruption of power from the grid 114 occurs, 100% of the power demand of the load 108 may be drawn from the at least one power module 106. The power from the at least one power module 106 is completely drawn from the UPM 102 via the “B” side power supply, or partly drawn to the “B” side power supply via the UPM 102 and partly IOM 104. And is connected to the grid 114 and drawn out to the “A” side power feeding section. In various embodiments, during normal operation, the at least one power module 106 outputs at least about 100% of the power required for the load 108, so that the at least one power module 106 can fail or interrupt the grid 114. If it does occur, it will not be spiked in output demand. Thus, harmful spikes in output power demand from at least one power module 106 are avoided.

  In various embodiments, when the IOM 104 is connected to the grid 114 (which is the “A” side feed of the load 108) and the UPM 102 is connected to the “B” side feed of the load 108, the IOM output is Greater than 50% of the output required for 108. For example, when the power demand of the load 108 is 160 kW, the UPM 102 provides 50% (or 80 kW) of this power to the “B” side power feeding unit. The output of the IOM 104 is at least 80 kW, which eliminates all utility (grid) burden from the load 108. However, the IOM 104 may be loaded at greater than 80 kW, for example, 120 kW. Surplus power (40 kW in this example) is delivered to satisfy other requirements (eg, it is delivered to a data center or building premises load). This type of loading configuration allows for full coverage of critical loads 108 such as IT loads, and allows for 100% asset utilization of a distributed generation (eg, fuel cell) system. In other words, the “A” side and the “B” side of the power output of the power module 106 indicate that the load power requirement is such that at least a part of the power output of the module 106 is provided to the facility where the load is located. The output power of the module 106 represents about 100% of the asset utilization of the module 106.

  The system 700 is not limited to a data center, and the system for supplying power to an important power site having a multi-code (for example, A, B, C, etc.) power supply structure and a load This method can be used.

  In various embodiments, the IT load 108 is an AC load that receives AC power from the grid 114 at the “A” side power supply. The power generated by the at least one power module 106 is DC power, and is converted into AC power before being fed to the “B” side power feeding unit of the load 108. For example, the system 700 includes an inverter for converting DC power that is placed in the UPM 102 or placed at another location between the power module 106 and the “B” side power supply of the load 106 to AC power. In a further embodiment, the IT load 108 is a DC load that receives DC power rectified from the grid 114 at the “A” side power supply of the IT load 108 (eg, an AC / DC rectifier is connected to the grid 114 and the load 108). And the “A” side power supply section of The “B” side power feeding unit of the load 108 is supplied with DC power from the power module 106 and the UPM 102. Optionally, a DC / DC converter is provided between the power module 106 such as in the UPM 102 and the “B” side power feeding unit. The DC / DC converter may, for example, set a voltage at a predetermined point and / or form insulation and / or provide an appropriate ground reference before DC power is fed to the “B” side feed of load 108. The direct current power from the power module 106 is adjusted by forming. In some embodiments, the load 108 receives AC power at a first power input (eg, “A” side feed or “B” side feed in a dual cord system) and a second power input (eg, “ DC power is received at the other of the “A” side power supply unit and the “B” side power supply unit). The load 108 includes power adjustment components (eg, inverters, rectifiers, converters, etc.) that adjust input power as needed.

  FIG. 7B illustrates another embodiment in which the additional grid 714 serves as a supplemental backup for the first grid 114 and the at least one power module 106. As illustrated in FIG. 7B, a changeover switch 712 is provided between the output of at least one UPM 102 and an auxiliary grid (for example, another example of the first grid power supply or the second grid power supply) 714. The output of the changeover switch 712 is supplied to the “B” side power supply unit of the data center load 108. In some embodiments, if at least one power module 106 fails, the “B” side feed is powered by the auxiliary grid 714.

  In another embodiment, a power factor correction (PFC) rectifier (eg, an insulated gate bipolar transistor (IGBT) type rectifier) is used instead of or in addition to the changeover switch. The power supply from the auxiliary or second grid 714 is diode ORed with the output from at least one UPM 102. This is provided as the “B” side input of load 108 and no static switch is required.

  FIG. 8 illustrates an embodiment of a system 800 for providing power to a medical facility. High power medical devices 808 such as MRI, X-ray, CT scan, positron emission tomography (PET), and X-ray C-arm devices are generally rectified to about 600 VDC and then powered to a DC / DC converter for hardware. Use a power supply that is a medium voltage alternating current (such as 480 VAC or 415 VAC) that produces a separate DC output that is isolated for operation. Considerable efficiency is lost in the AC / DC conversion stage. Furthermore, medical peaking charges are important because of surge power demand.

  In the system 800 of the embodiment shown in FIG. 8, at least one power module 106 and associated IOM 104 are connected to at least one uninterruptible power module (UPM1) in parallel with these DC output buses 812 (eg, ± 380 VDC buses). ) 102 is provided. This configuration is similar to the configuration shown in FIGS. 6A-6E for the ECM in which the output of the power module 106 is provided to the DC bus 812 and the output of the DC bus 812 is provided to the IOM 104 and the UPM 102. is there. As shown in FIG. 8, additional UPMs 102 (eg, UPM2,... UPMn) are each similarly connected to additional power modules / IOM units (not shown). Each UPM 102 has an inverter 802 that provides an AC power output 820 (eg, 480 VAC) and a DC / DC converter 804 that provides a DC power output 822 (eg, 400-600 VDC). The AC output (eg, 480 VAC) from the UPM 102 is coupled to the input of the medical facility static switch 810 via the AC bus 820 as a “B” side power supply. The “A” side power feeding unit is provided from the grid 114.

  The IOM inverter 104A outputs AC power (for example, 480 VAC) to the grid 114 for general transmission. As in the embodiment of FIG. 7, the power output from the IOM 104 to the grid 114 is returned to the “A” side power feed of the medical facility static switch 810. Thus, in various embodiments, during normal operation of the system 800, net power is not drawn from the grid 114 and all or substantially all power required for the medical device 808 is provided by one or more power modules 106. Is done.

  The power from the static switch 810 is provided as an input to a rectifier 818 for converting AC power (eg, 480 VAC) to DC power (eg, 600 VDC) fed to the input stage of the medical device DC / DC converter 816. The As mentioned above, considerable efficiency is lost in this AC / DC conversion process. As shown in FIG. 8, the 400-600 VDC output bus 822 from the UPM 102 is coupled to the input stage of the medical device DC / DC converter 816. This ensures that at least a portion of the DC input power to the DC / DC converter 816, including all of the DC input power to the DC / DC converter 816, does not need to be AC / DC converted first, via the UPM. Provided by PWM 106. Thus, at least some of the efficiency loss associated with AC / DC conversion is avoided.

  The medical device DC / DC converter 816 powers the high-fidelity amplifier 824 and then uses a plurality of individual DC outputs (eg, 700V) that are used to power one or more medical devices 808 (MD1). , 100V, etc.).

  In various embodiments, multiple medical devices 808 are coupled to the DC output of one or more UPMs 102. As schematically shown in FIG. 8, for example, the medical devices MD2 to MDn are coupled to the 400 to 600 VDC output bus 822 of the UPM 102 and configured in the same manner as the MD1. A sequencing controller 826 is provided to control the sequence of operation of the medical device 108. In various embodiments, the sequencing controller 826 is configured to provide a small delay so that the power drawn by the medical device is balanced and no excessive peak power draw is required. In various embodiments, the sequencing controller 826 is configured to prioritize various parts of the medical device. For example, the sequencing controller 826 provides for emergency situations of one or more medical devices so that low priority medical devices are switched off in favor of critical medical devices for life saving.

  In various embodiments, UPM 102 includes an energy storage device such as ultracapacitor 806 shown in FIG. In various embodiments, the energy storage of UPM 102 is enhanced by an additional storage module to provide increased peak power for the medical device without generating an increased peaking charge.

  In various embodiments, the UPM 102 is configured to receive power from an auxiliary power source 814 that is powered by a grid 114, a second grid or other AC generator for providing backup peaking supply for the UPM 102. In various embodiments, the UPM 102 has a PFC improvement rectifier 805 to draw power from the auxiliary power source 814 as needed. Alternatively or additionally, the UPM has a static switch (not shown) to take in power from an auxiliary power source 814 such as a second grid to provide a reliable “B” side power supply.

  FIG. 9 illustrates a further embodiment system 900 for providing direct current power to a medical facility. In this system 900, the power module 106 provides an appropriate DC power output (eg, 600 VDC) to the input stage of the medical device DC / DC converter 816. The outputs of the units of the plurality of power modules 106 are in parallel to increase reliability. As shown in FIG. 9, the power module 106 is configured to output ± 380 VDC (eg, using a DC / DC converter in the power module 106), and a second stage DC / DC converter 802 in the UPM 102. Generates 600 VDC for the 600 VDC bus 822 (ie, a “series” approach). In another embodiment, two sets of DC / DC converters operate in parallel within the power module 106. The first set of DC / DC converters generates ± 380 VDC (eg, for auxiliary equipment and / or for powering the inverter 104A in the IOM 104). The second set of DC / DC converters generate 600 VDC for the 600 VDC bus 822. In either embodiment, bus 822 powers 600 VDC to the input stage of medical device DC / DC converter 816.

  As shown in FIG. 9, in the plurality of embodiments, the IOM 104 includes the inverter 104A as described above. The AC power output (eg, 480 VAC) from inverter 104A is provided to grid 114. The power output from the IOM 104 to the grid 114 is returned to the system 900 at the UPM 102, such as via a PFC improved rectifier 805 and / or a static switch, as described above. The grid power is rectified in the UPM 102, DC / DC converted to 600 VDC, and supplied to the 600 VDC bus 822. Thus, in various embodiments, during normal operation of the system 900, no net power is drawn from the grid 114 and all or substantially all the power required for the medical device 808 is provided by one or more power modules 106. Is done. The power module 106 is operated to generate all or substantially all of the power required for the medical device 108. All or part of the output power from the power module 106 is supplied to the grid 114 by the IOM 104 and returned to the UPM 102. All or part of the output power from the power module 106 is direct current power fed directly to the input stage of the medical device DC / DC converter 816. In the event of a grid 114 failure or interruption, the system 900 transitions to 100% direct DC power to the medical device. The power module 106 does not experience significant power spikes.

  An energy storage device such as the ultracapacitor 806 shown in FIG. 9 is provided to the UPM 102 (in some embodiments, including a charge / discharge DC / DC converter but not including an output inverter).

  As shown in FIGS. 8 and 9, various embodiments of the UPM 102 may include an ultracapacitor for input and energy storage to receive DC power (eg, ± 380 VDC) from one or more power modules 106 / IOM 104. It has an energy storage device 806, such as a battery, and further includes a charge / discharge (or bi-directional) DC / DC converter for transferring energy to or from the energy storage device. As shown in FIG. 8, the UPM 102 has an inverter 802 with an inverter and a transformer circuit that generates a suitable AC feed (eg, other grid voltages such as 50/60 Hz 3-wire or 4-wire 480 VAC or 415 VAC). .

  In various embodiments, the UPM 102 is configured to provide a DC power output at a voltage different from the input bus voltage from one or more power modules 106. As shown in FIGS. 8 and 9, for example, the UPM 102 converts the input ± 380 VDC from the bus 812 into a different DC output voltage (for example, 400 to 600 VDC, particularly 600 VDC) on the bus 822. 804. Various embodiments provide various DC output voltages including adjustable output voltages such as 0-600 VDC based on setpoints and voltages lower than power module input voltages such as 12, 24, 36 and / or 48 VDC. It has UPM102. In various embodiments, the output DC voltage from the UPM 102 that is different from the input voltage provided by the power module 106 is not grounded and / or positive with respect to ground and / or negative with respect to ground. is there.

  A typical high power medical device 808, such as an MRI, X-ray, CT scanner, PET scanner, C-arm device, etc., has a transformer / rectifier input stage to generate a DC voltage on the order of 600 VDC. Various embodiments include a medical device 808 that uses direct DC power supply as shown in FIG. By eliminating the input transformer / rectifier, the efficiency of the medical device 808 is increased while the cost of the medical device 808 is reduced.

  10A-10B illustrate a further embodiment of a system 1000, 1001 for providing direct DC power to an AC load 1008. A large AC machine generally begins with rectifying the grid feed and then from this rectified DC feed a motor driver or load driver that generates AC power at a predetermined frequency for AC load (eg, motor) operation or Powered by a variable frequency drive system.

  As shown in system 1000 of FIG. 10A, at least one power module 106 generates direct current output power (eg, ± 380 VDC). DC output power is coupled to the IOM 104 via the DC bus 812. The IOM 104 has a DC / AC converter 104A for sending output AC power to the grid 114. DC bus 812 is coupled to UPM 102. The UPM 102 includes a DC / AC converter 802 for providing the bus 820 with an output AC power supply provided as a “B” -side power supply unit of the changeover switch 1010 that is a customer-side changeover switch. The “A” side power feeding unit of the changeover switch 1010 is from the grid 114. AC power from the changeover switch 1010 is rectified in an AC / DC converter 1018 to provide DC output power (eg, 600 VDC) connected as an intermediate bus for the motor driver 1020. Motor driver 1020 converts DC power into AC power at a predetermined frequency for use with AC load 1008.

  The UPM 102 includes a DC / DC converter 804 for providing DC output power (eg, 600 VDC) from an input DC power supply (eg, ± 380 VDC) from the bus 812. Direct current output power (for example, 600 VDC) is provided from the UPM 102 to the intermediate bus of the motor driver 1020 via the DC bus 822.

  FIG. 10B illustrates another embodiment of a system 1001 in which a first DC output power (eg, ± 380 VDC) from the power module 106 is provided to the IOM 104 via the DC bus 812. As shown in the system 1000 of FIG. 10A, power is converted into alternating current by the inverter 104 </ b> A and sent to the grid 114. The power module 106 includes a DC / DC converter 1006 that converts a second portion of DC output power to a second voltage on the bus 822 (eg, 600 VDC), which Power is directly supplied to the motor driver 1020 and converted to a predetermined AC frequency for the AC load 1008. In the embodiment of FIG. 10B, the rectifier 1018 that converts AC grid power to DC power feed for the motor driver 1020 is not required.

  In systems 1000 and 1001 of FIGS. 10A and 10B, the braking (or device shutdown) current of motor driver 1020 is applied to DC (eg, ± 380 VDC) bus 812 of power module 106 via DC bus 1013 and converter 1012. A DC / DC converter 1012 (or bi-directional DC / DC converter) is provided to be placed and directed to an energy storage device (such as ultracapacitor 806) located in the PWM, IOM and / or UPM. Motor braking or device stop current is provided to the grid 114 via the IOM inverter 104A. To this end, the bi-directional motor driver at the energy customer's location uses braking power, but the motor driver inverter 1018 typically does not comply with UL1741 / IEEE 1547 and sends this power to the utility grid. Can only be used to supply the campus load on the energy customer side rather than the meter, otherwise there is a benefit because a resistive load must be used.

  In a further embodiment, the configuration as shown in FIGS. 10A and 10B is used in conjunction with an electric railway locomotive. One or more distributed power systems, such as the systems 1000, 1001 shown in FIGS. 10A and 10B, are provided on a railroad track, eg, at one or more railroad stations. The load 1008 is a locomotive. When the locomotive departs, direct-current power is directly supplied to the locomotive, for example, via the DC bus 822 shown in FIGS. 10A and 10B. When the locomotive stops, the braking power is received by the systems 1001 and 1001 via the DC / DC converter 1012 and the DC bus 1013, for example.

  The structure shown in FIGS. 10A and 10B is also used to supply power to a DC load that uses a chopper load driver instead of a four quadrant inverter. This type of load is, for example, an induction furnace. The configuration shown in FIGS. 10A and 10B is also used to provide the power supplied to the resonant converter that drives the X-ray equipment to the manufacturing inspection X-ray apparatus.

  FIG. 11 illustrates an embodiment of a system 1100 for supplying power to one or more loads 1108 using one or more power modules 106 and / or one or more microturbine generators 1106. As shown in FIG. 11, power from the micro turbine (M1) 1106 is converted into direct current power by a rectifier 1116, and this DC power supply (for example, 600 VDC) is provided to a DC bus 822 connected to the UPM 102. One or more power modules 106 are replenished or replaced by one or more microturbines 1106. The electric power from the micro turbine 1106 is provided to the UPM 102 via, for example, a DC / DC converter 1112 and a regenerative storage device 1114 (for example, a storage battery, a capacitor, a flywheel, etc.), and is sent to the grid 114 via the IOM 104. One or more micro turbine generators 1106 may be used in place of or in combination with any one of the fuel cell power modules 106 of the above-described embodiment. The load 1108 is provided with AC power via the grid 114 and / or from the UPM via the AC bus 820 and the switch 1110. Additional AC power is provided to the load 1108 from the micro turbine 1106 via the DC / DC converter 1112 and the inverter 1115. Direct DC power supply to the load 1108 is provided from the DC bus 822 as described above.

  The various embodiments described above include an on-site fuel storage system. As used herein, “on-site” includes within the same building or distributed generator (eg, power module 106) and / or near a load (eg, within a 0.1 mile radius). In various embodiments, the fuel is stored compressed natural gas (eg, in a gas storage cylinder or vessel), stored liquefied natural gas, stored liquefied petroleum such as propane (eg, propane tank), ethanol, diesel, liquefied hydrogen, Storage compressed hydrogen and / or ammonia.

  In various embodiments, a system for powering one or more loads using a distributed generator, such as a fuel cell power module, a micro turbine, etc., has at least two fuel inputs for the distributed generator. , At least one fuel input includes fuel from a local fuel storage system. In one embodiment, the first fuel input is fuel supplied from a remote source (eg, a natural gas pipeline) and the second fuel input is a local fuel storage system. For example, when the supply of the first fuel input is interrupted and / or when the cost of the first fuel input exceeds the cost of the second fuel input and / or the first fuel When a supply interruption is predicted (for example in the case of a natural disaster such as a tsunami or earthquake) and the second fuel input is stiff to survive in such a disaster, the system It is configured to shift to the first fuel input.

  Various embodiments include at least one power module having at least one fuel cell segment that generates output power, and at least one power conditioning component electrically coupled between the at least one power module and the grid. And a second module having at least one power conditioning component electrically coupled between the at least one power module and the B-side power supply of the load. And the A-side power feeding portion of the load is electrically coupled to the power module via the grid.

  In various embodiments, the second module comprises an uninterruptible power module (UPM) having an inverter for providing an AC power output to the B-side power feed of the load.

  In a further embodiment, the UPM has a DC / DC converter that converts the input DC feed from the power module to a DC output feed on the DC bus.

  In a further embodiment, the DC bus is electrically coupled to the load to provide direct DC power to the load.

  In a further embodiment, the uninterruptible power module has a rectifier for taking power from an auxiliary power source.

  In a further embodiment, the auxiliary power source includes a grid.

  In a further embodiment, the uninterruptible power module includes an energy storage device.

  In a further embodiment, the energy storage device includes an ultracapacitor.

  In further embodiments, at least a portion of the power to the load is provided by a microturbine generator.

  In a further embodiment, the system has at least two fuel inputs for at least one fuel cell segment, and the at least one fuel input includes fuel stored locally.

  In a further embodiment, the system may receive a second fuel input from the first fuel input in response to a predicted or actual interruption of the first fuel input or a change in relative price between the first fuel input and the second fuel input. It is configured to switch to fuel input.

  Various embodiments include at least one power module having at least one fuel cell segment that generates output power, and at least one electrically coupled between the at least one power module and a direct DC power source of the load. At least one uninterruptible power module having one power conditioning component, and at least a portion of the output power generated by the at least one power module is at least via an input DC bus One uninterruptible power module is provided with a first voltage and via a DC output bus from at least one uninterruptible power module to a load at a second voltage different from the first voltage.

  In a further embodiment, the at least one power conditioning component includes a DC / DC converter.

  In a further embodiment, the second voltage is higher than the first voltage.

  In a further embodiment, the second voltage is lower than the first voltage.

  In a further embodiment, the at least one uninterruptible power module is configured to provide an adjustable output voltage via a DC output bus.

  In a further embodiment, the first voltage is ± 380 VDC and the second voltage is 600 VDC.

  In a further embodiment, the total output power from the at least one power module is at least about 100% of the total power required to power the load.

  In a further embodiment, the net power drawn from the grid to provide power to the load is substantially zero.

  In a further embodiment, the at least one uninterruptible power module includes an inverter for converting at least a portion of the output power generated by the at least one power module into AC power provided as a B-side feed to the load. Have.

  In a further embodiment, the A side feed to the load is provided by a grid.

  In a further embodiment, the load is at least one of a locomotive that receives DC power from a DC output bus, an induction furnace, and an X-ray device used for manufacturing inspection.

  In a further embodiment, the system has a sequencing controller for controlling power supply via a DC output bus to multiple loads.

  In a further embodiment, the sequencing controller is configured to provide a delay in supplying power to the load to minimize excessive peak power draw.

  In a further embodiment, the sequencing controller is configured to control the supply of power to the load based on a predetermined priority of the load.

  Various embodiments are methods for providing power to a load, wherein the output power is generated using at least one power module having at least one fuel cell segment, and a first portion of the output power is gridded. And providing a second portion of the output power to the B-side power supply of the load.

  In a further embodiment, the method comprises providing at least one auxiliary power source electrically coupled between the uninterruptible power module and the B-side power supply of the load.

  In a further embodiment, the auxiliary power source includes a second grid.

  In a further embodiment, the method comprises maintaining continuous power to a load via at least one of an A-side power supply and a B-side power supply using a power search switch.

  In a further embodiment, the method comprises converting a first portion of the power output from DC power to AC power using an inverter prior to providing power to the grid.

  In a further embodiment, the method comprises using an inverter to convert at least a portion of the second portion of the power output into AC power using an inverter before providing power to the B-side power supply of the load. To do.

  In a further embodiment, the method includes converting at least a portion of the second portion of the power output from DC power at the first voltage to DC power at a second voltage different from the first voltage by a DC / DC converter. And providing DC power of the second voltage to the load.

  In a further embodiment, the first voltage is ± 380 VDC and the second voltage is 400-600 VDC.

  In a further embodiment, the method includes generating power using a microturbine and providing power from the microturbine to a load.

  In a further embodiment, the method includes providing fuel to a fuel cell segment using a first fuel input from a first fuel source, and a fuel cell from a second fuel source that is locally stored fuel. Switching to a second fuel input to the segment.

  In a further embodiment, the switching is performed in response to a predicted or actual interruption of the first fuel input or a change in relative price between the first fuel input and the second fuel input.

  Various embodiments are methods for providing power to a load, wherein the output power is generated using at least one power module having at least one fuel cell segment, and a first portion of the output power is gridded. Providing a second portion of the output power to a DC / DC converter that converts the output power from the first voltage to the second voltage; and providing the output power of the second voltage to the load. Including methods to do.

  In a further embodiment, the second voltage is higher than the first voltage.

  In a further embodiment, the second voltage is lower than the first voltage.

  In a further embodiment, the second voltage is adjustable.

  In a further embodiment, the first voltage is ± 380 VDC and the second voltage is 600 VDC.

  In a further embodiment, providing a first portion of output power to the grid further comprises providing the first portion to an inverter that converts power from DC power to AC power for delivery to the grid. .

  In a further embodiment, the total output power from the at least one power module is at least about 100% of the total power required to power the load.

  In a further embodiment, the net power drawn from the grid to provide power to the load is substantially zero.

  In a further embodiment, the method includes providing a third portion of the output power to an inverter that converts the third portion to AC power, and converting the AC converted third portion of the output power to a B-side power feed for the load. Providing the steps.

  In a further embodiment, the A-side feed of the load is provided by a grid.

  In a further embodiment, providing the output power of the second voltage to the load is to a medical device DC / DC converter for providing a plurality of separate direct current outputs to power at least one medical device. Providing an output power of a second voltage as an input.

  In a further embodiment, the step of providing the output power of the second voltage to the load provides the output power of the second voltage as an input to a motor driver that converts to a predetermined AC frequency for at least one AC load. Has steps.

  In a further embodiment, providing the output power of the second voltage to the load comprises applying the second voltage to at least one of one locomotive, one induction furnace, and an x-ray device used for manufacturing inspection. Providing output power.

  In a further embodiment, the method comprises receiving a braking current from a load.

  In a further embodiment, the method comprises providing at least a portion of the power from the braking current to the grid.

  In a further embodiment, the method comprises storing at least a portion of the power from the braking current in an energy storage device.

  In a further embodiment, the method comprises the step of controlling the supply of the second voltage output power to the plurality of loads.

  In a further embodiment, controlling the supply comprises providing a delay in power supply to the load to minimize excessive peak power draw.

  In a further embodiment, controlling the supply includes supplying power to the load based on a predetermined priority of the load.

  In a further embodiment, the method comprises generating at least a portion of power for a load using at least one microturbine generator.

  The above method descriptions are provided by way of example only and are not intended to require or imply that the steps of the various embodiments must be performed in the order described. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the order of the steps of the above embodiments may be performed in other orders. Furthermore, terms such as “after”, “next”, “next” do not limit the order of the steps, and these terms are merely used to guide the reader through the description of the method.

  One or more block / flow diagrams have been used to describe exemplary embodiments. The use of these block / flow diagrams does not imply limitations on the order of execution of operations. The above description of exemplary embodiments has been presented for purposes of illustration and description. This is not intended to be exhaustive or limiting with respect to the disclosed clear forms, and changes and modifications can be made in view of the above technology, and changes and modifications can be made from the disclosed embodiments. It can also be obtained. The scope of the present invention is defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

  A control element (eg, controller 826) may be implemented using a computing device (such as a computer) having a processor, memory, and other components programmed with instructions to perform a particular function, It may be implemented with a processor designed to perform a specific function. The processor comprises a programmable microprocessor, microcomputer or multiple processors that can be configured by software instructions (applications) to perform various functions, including, for example, the functions of the various embodiments described herein. One or more chips. In some computing devices, multiple processors are provided. Typically, a software application is stored in internal memory before it is accessed and loaded into the processor. In some computing devices, the processor has sufficient internal memory to store application software instructions.

  The various exemplary logic blocks, modules, circuits, and algorithm steps described in connection with the embodiments disclosed herein are implemented as electronic hardware, computer software, or combinations thereof. To clearly illustrate such hardware and software compatibility, various illustrative components, blocks, modules, circuits, and steps have been described above generally in terms of their functionality. Whether these functions are implemented as hardware or software depends on specific applications and design constraints imposed on the entire system. Those skilled in the art can implement the above functions differently for each particular application, but such implementation decisions should not be construed as causing deviations from the scope of the present invention.

  The hardware used to implement the various exemplary logic, logic blocks, modules, and circuits described in connection with the aspects disclosed herein is designed to perform the functions described herein. General purpose processor, digital signal processor (DSP), application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), field programmable gate array (FPGA) or other programmable logic device, discrete gate or transistor logic, discrete hardware components or any of them Realized or implemented in combination. A general purpose processor may be a microprocessor, but in the alternative, the processor may be any conventional processor, controller, microcontroller, or state machine. The processor may also be implemented as a combination of computing devices, such as a combination of a DSP and a microprocessor, a plurality of microprocessors, one or more microprocessors associated with a DSP core, or other such configuration. Alternatively, some blocks or methods may be performed by circuitry specific to a given function.

  The above description of the disclosed embodiments is provided to enable any person skilled in the art to make or use the described embodiments. Various modifications to these embodiments will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the generic principles defined herein may be applied to other embodiments without departing from the scope of the disclosure. . Accordingly, the present invention is not intended to be limited to the embodiments shown herein but is to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the claims and the principles and novel features disclosed herein.

Claims (41)

At least one power module having at least one fuel cell segment configured to generate output power;
At least one first output module having at least one power conditioning component electrically coupled between the at least one power module and a grid;
The grid is electrically connected to the A-side power supply of the load such that the at least one power module is configured to supply power to the A-side power supply of the load via the at least one first output module. A first bus connected to
At least one second output module having at least one power conditioning component electrically coupled between the at least one power module and a B-side feed of the load;
A power generation system comprising: The power generation system according to claim 1,
The load includes an IT load;
The at least one first output module includes an input / output module;
The at least one second output module includes at least one uninterruptible power module;
A first portion of output power generated by the at least one power module is provided to the grid via the at least one input / output module and from the grid to the A-side power supply of the load;
A second portion of output power generated by the at least one power module is provided to the B-side power feed of the load via the at least one uninterruptible power module;
Power generation system.   The power generation system of claim 1, wherein the first portion of the output power is about 50% of the total output power from the at least one power module, and the second portion of the output power is the at least one one. A power generation system that is approximately 50% of the total output power from the power module.   The power generation system of claim 1, wherein the total output power from the at least one power module is at least about 100% of the total power required to power the load.   The power generation system of claim 1, wherein the net power drawn from the grid to provide power to the load is substantially zero.   The power generation system according to claim 1, wherein the IT load includes at least one of a computer, a server, a router, a rack, and a power connection unit arranged in a data center.   2. The power generation system according to claim 1, further comprising at least one of a diesel generator and an uninterruptible power supply electrically coupled between the grid and the A-side power feeding unit of the load.   3. The power generation system according to claim 2, further comprising at least one auxiliary power source electrically coupled between the uninterruptible power module and the B-side power feeding unit of the load.   The power generation system according to claim 8, wherein the auxiliary power source has a second grid.   9. The power generation system according to claim 8, further comprising a changeover switch disposed between an output of the uninterruptible power module and the auxiliary power supply, wherein an output from the changeover switch is the B-side power feeding unit of the load. Provided to the power generation system.   9. The power generation system according to claim 8, further comprising a power factor correction rectifier disposed between an output of the uninterruptible power module and the auxiliary power source, and an output from the power factor correction rectifier is the load of the load. A power generation system provided to the B-side power feeding unit.   The power generation system of claim 11, wherein the power factor correction rectifier is an insulated bipolar transistor (IGBT) rectifier.   The power generation system according to claim 1, wherein the load includes a power search switch for maintaining continuous power to the load via at least one of the A-side power supply unit and the B-side power supply unit. Power generation system.   The power generation system according to claim 1, wherein the load includes a dual cord power source including two sets of power circuits that draw power from at least one of the A side feeding unit and the B side feeding unit in the form of an auction. Power generation system.   The power generation system of claim 1, wherein the load includes one or more medical devices.   The power generation system according to claim 1, wherein the load includes one or more AC loads.   The power generation system according to claim 1, wherein the load includes at least one of a locomotive, an induction furnace, and an X-ray machine for manufacturing inspection.   The power generation system of claim 2, wherein the at least one power conditioning component of the at least one input / output module includes an inverter for providing an AC power output to the grid.   The power generation system of claim 2, wherein the at least one power conditioning component of the at least one uninterruptible power module includes an inverter for providing an AC power output to the B-side power feed of the load. system.   20. The power generation system according to claim 19, wherein the at least one uninterruptible power module includes a DC / DC converter that converts an input DC power supply from the at least one power module into an output DC power supply on a DC bus. .   21. The power generation system according to claim 20, wherein a voltage of the DC bus is different from a voltage of an input DC power supply from the at least one power module.   The power generation system according to claim 21, wherein a voltage of the DC bus is 400 to 600 VDC.   The power generation system of claim 20, wherein the at least one uninterruptible power module comprises an energy storage device. At least one power module having at least one fuel cell segment that produces output power;
At least one uninterruptible power module having at least one DC / AC inverter and at least one DC / DC converter electrically coupled between the at least one power module and a direct DC power supply of a load When,
A DC input bus electrically connecting the at least one power module and the at least one uninterruptible power module;
A DC output bus electrically connecting the at least one uninterruptible power module and a load;
Comprising
At least a portion of the output power generated by the at least one power module is provided at a first voltage to the at least one uninterruptible power module via the DC input bus from the at least one uninterruptible power module. Provided to the load via a DC output bus at a second voltage different from the first voltage;
Power generation system.   25. The power generation system of claim 24, comprising at least one inverter electrically coupled to the at least one power module to provide a portion of the output power generated by the at least one power module to the grid. A power generation system further comprising one input / output module, wherein the at least one uninterruptible power module is configured to receive power from the grid via the DC / AC inverter.   25. The power generation system of claim 24, wherein the load includes at least one medical device and provides a plurality of individual direct current outputs to supply the at least one medical device to a medical device DC / DC converter. A power generation system in which power from the DC output bus is provided as input.   25. The power generation system of claim 24, wherein the load includes at least one AC load, and from the DC output bus as an input to a motor driver that performs conversion to a predetermined AC frequency for the at least one AC load. A power generation system that provides power.   25. The power generation system of claim 24, wherein the DC input bus is connected to the load such that a braking current from the load is provided to the DC input bus, and at least a portion of the power from the braking current. Is fed to the grid, and at least part of the power from the braking current is stored in an energy storage device.   25. The power generation system of claim 24, further comprising at least one microturbine generator electrically coupled to the DC output bus. A method for providing power to a load comprising:
Generating output power using at least one power module having at least one fuel cell segment;
Providing a first portion of the output power to the A-side power feed of the load via a grid;
Providing a second portion of the output power to a B-side power feed of the load;
A method comprising:   The method of claim 30, wherein the load comprises an IT load.   31. The method of claim 30, wherein providing the first portion comprises providing the grid with about 50% of the total output power from the at least one power module and providing the second portion. And the step of providing approximately 50% of the total power from the at least one power module to the B-side power supply.   32. The method of claim 30, wherein generating the output power comprises generating at least about 100% of the total power required to power the load.   31. The method of claim 30, wherein in addition to the output power supplied by the at least one power module, power is supplied to the load such that the net power drawn by the load from the grid is substantially zero. The way it is.   31. The method of claim 30, wherein providing the first portion comprises providing the first portion of the output power as direct current to an input / output module having at least one DC / AC inverter; Supplying from the input / output module to the grid as alternating current.   31. The method of claim 30, wherein providing the second part comprises providing the second part of the output power as direct current to an uninterruptible module having at least one DC / AC inverter; Providing as an alternating current from the uninterruptible power module to the B-side power supply.   32. The method of claim 30, wherein the load comprises one or more direct current medical devices.   32. The method of claim 30, wherein the load comprises one or more AC loads.   31. The method of claim 30, wherein the load comprises at least one of a locomotive, an induction furnace, and a manufacturing inspection x-ray machine.   31. The method of claim 30, wherein there is substantially no power spike due to the load when the grid enters a power outage condition.   41. The method of claim 40, wherein the first portion of the output power and the second portion of the output power are greater than 100% of the load power requirement, and the first portion of the output power and the At least a portion of the second portion of output power is provided to a facility where the load is located, and the first portion of the output power and the second portion of the output power are the at least one power module. The method is about 100% asset utilization.

Images